By Tami Charbonnet
Is crisp, fresh spring air bringing out your inner green thumb? Planting a fresh herb garden is an easy, cost-efficient way to bring new life to your backyard, outdoor living space or even your kitchen window. An herb garden will create a beautiful, aromatic ambiance, and it will inspire you to use homegrown mature herbs in recipes, warm teas, bath and facial scrubs and vase arrangements. The following tips will help establish a thriving garden of fresh herbs.
1. The easiest way to start an herb garden is to purchase young organic plants at a local farmerís market or nursery rather than growing plants from seeds.
2. Choose the location of your garden wisely. Herbs need six hours of sunlight per day. If you do not have an outdoor spot, try planting in small containers in front of a bright window.
3. If planting in an outdoor garden, keep 2-4 inches between each plant.
4. Once you find the perfect spot, loosen the soil and add natural compost or peat moss. Be sure to mix the soil well.
5. Always plant during mild mornings or evenings to help prevent wilting.
6. Once herbs are planted, they should be watered after surrounding soil is dry. Do not over water.
7. As soon as herbs begin to mature, begin harvesting gently. Never remove more than a third of the plant. Harvest from the top of the plant. Herbs can be harvested for several months if they are carefully harvested and watered.
Dig deep
Gardening is a therapeutic experience and helps reduce stress.
Some herbs also have medicinal properties known to decrease inflammation, fight bacteria and help detoxify the body.
Best herbs to grow:
Basil or sweet basil- Sage
- Dill
- Savory
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sweet marjoram
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Cilantro
- Chives
- Parsley
- Mint
